Review of Magnum Force (1973) by Grant L — 20 Aug 2012

This is a solid, action packed and violent (with the series's highest body count at 30) sequel to perennial 70s classic crime caper Dirty Harry. This time out, Harry goes up against a death squad of vigilantes, who, as it turns out, are cops that have a sense of justice more brutal and absolute than Harry's. It's an interesting twist, mostly since the first film often gets labeled as fascist for how it shows Harry as pretty ruthless when it comes to carrying out the law. That even he gets sickened by the tactics of the vigilantes here is wonderfully ironic, and makes for a great set up as far as a plot goes.

The film isn't quite as good as the first, but it's still really well done, entertaining, and even a tad thought provoking. The concept could have been handled perhaps a little better and stronger, but at least screenwriters (and future directors) Michael Cimino and John Milius try and put some effort into things. Ted Post is in the director's chair, and he brings a great amount of action with some quieter moments. Lalo Schifrin returns to do the music, and of course, Eastwood shines in one of his signature roles. His supporting cast includes Hal Holbrook, and he does a splendid job of going toe to toe with Clint, and the rest of the cast are okay too.

The film does have some plot holes, and kinda really seems like a strung together series of vignettes at times, but even then it's a rousing caper featuring one of the coolest characters ever.